Shareware concept
What is Shareware?
Shareware is a distribution model that is applied within the field of software. Unlike freeware, which is absolutely free, it is characterized by offering a series of functions for a limited time so that users who try it can evaluate it.
It is a kind of program that has been used since the 80s within computing and that, since then, has become of great advantage to follow strategies such as Sampling. The companies launch these tests to make their software known to consumers so that they can see first-hand how it works and the quality with which it works.
A temporary sample that, in general, tends to enjoy some kind of restriction. It is possible that its use is total, but limited to a period of time; that certain functions cannot be used or that a watermark is always implemented showing the company logo behind the software in question. There are many types of restrictions to this effect.
Shareware is not new at all, but, as we said, it is not something that has lost effectiveness in all this time that it has been in existence, since companies have visualized in it the best way to show the world their offer and finish incentivize, or not, consumers who dare to try it.
What is Shareware for
Shareware serves, in the eyes of the consumer, to be able to carry out a task using a computer program without costs, even when always with the threat of restrictions flying overhead. It is also something that helps to know if it is important to highlight or not pay for a software, since it allows you to see what it is capable of doing and to what extent it can take it despite not having full availability.
For companies, it is something that, although apparently of great advantage, also represents a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it is a perfect way to present your product and get feedback for possible improvements, as well as to increase your visibility and ensure that more people know both who they are and what they offer. On the other hand, if it's not good, it can cause a flurry of unhelpful negative reviews.
Shareware Examples
Doing a bit of memory, it's easy to pull off some stupendously valid Shareware examples. However, to give you a clearer idea, we leave you here a publication with a list that incorporates both brands and software of this type that are quite well known by the general public. Take a look: What are the most used Shareware examples?
More information about Shareware
If you need more information about Shareware, we suggest you continue reading with the articles that we are going to link below. These publications expand on what is explained here, as well as present other concepts with which it is closely linked. We hope they are useful to you.
